About this trip idea

Located within one city block in beautiful downtown Columbus are attractions that will amaze kids and parents alike, and won’t break the bank.

Explore the indoor playground at the Commons. The centerpiece of this no-cost play experience is the 35-foot-tall Lucky Climber, which truly must be seen to be believed! The playground features three separate zones, each with activities geared toward toddlers, little kids or big kids.

Right across the street, spend hours exploring kidscommons, a three-story children’s museum featuring a rock-climbing wall, a room dedicated to blowing giant-sized bubbles and the world’s largest toilet, where kids can “flush” themselves down the pipes!

In the same block on historical Washington Street, grab lunch and a sweet treat at Zaharakos, a meticulously restored ice-cream parlor and soda fountain dating from 1900. A favorite place of generations of parents and kids, Zaharakos is home to the Welt Orchestrion, a self-playing pipe organ that provides the rich sound of a full orchestra complete with bass and snare drums, triangle, and cymbals!

While you’re in town, spend a day on the river at Blue’s Canoe Livery, just a short drive from downtown Columbus. Offering camping, kayaks, rafts and canoes, the friendly folks at Blue’s can help you pick a trip to suit any age and ability level.